16alpha-Hydroxy steroids. XI. 2beta-and 16alpha-hydroxylation of 9alpha-fluorohydrocortisone by strains of Streptomyces roseochromogenes.

9alpha-Fluorohydrocortisone is hydroxylated by Streptomyces roseochromogenes in the 16alpha-, the 2beta-, and in both the 16alpha- and 2beta- positions. 16alpha-Hydroxylation appears to be the more predominant and rapid pathway of transformation. The degree of 2beta-hydroxylation is dependent upon the strain used and may be increased to the point of its being a major route or virtually eliminated by the proper selection of isolates.